About the song
The iconic performance of “That’ll Be the Day” by Buddy Holly and the Crickets on The Ed Sullivan Show on December 1, 1957, marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of rock and roll. This infectious anthem, with its simple yet powerful melody and Holly’s distinctive vocal delivery, captivated audiences across the nation, solidifying the band’s status as pioneers of the genre.
However, the song’s journey to becoming a cultural touchstone was far from straightforward. Originally recorded in 1956 by Buddy Holly and the Three Tunes for Decca Records, the track was initially overlooked by the label. Disappointed with Holly’s previous singles, Decca opted not to release the recording. Undeterred by this setback, Holly, now performing as the Crickets, re-recorded the song in 1957. This version, imbued with a raw energy and youthful exuberance, struck a chord with audiences and catapulted the Crickets to stardom.
Behind the scenes, a complex web of contractual obligations and label politics surrounded the song. Holly’s contract with Decca prevented him from re-recording any of the 1956 Nashville sessions, forcing him and producer Norman Petty to employ creative strategies to release the new version. Their ingenuity, coupled with the song’s undeniable appeal, led to its immense success.
The Ed Sullivan Show performance served as a powerful platform for Buddy Holly and the Crickets to showcase their talent to a massive audience. Their energetic rendition of “That’ll Be the Day” electrified viewers and solidified the song’s place in music history. It was a defining moment for the band and a testament to the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll.
From its humble beginnings as an overlooked recording to its status as a timeless classic, “That’ll Be the Day” embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that characterized the early days of rock and roll.
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Lyrics
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die
Well, you gave me all your loving
And your turtle doving
All your hugs and kisses
And your money too
You know you love me, baby
Still you tell me maybe
That someday well
I’ll be through
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
Cause that’ll be the day
When I die, well
When Cupid shot his dart
He shot it at your heart
So if we ever part
Then I’ll leave you
You sit and hold me
And you tell me boldly
That someday
Well, I’ll be through
Well, that’ll be the day
When you say goodbye
Yes, that’ll be the day
When you make me cry
You say you’re gonna leave
You know it’s a lie
‘Cause that’ll be the day
When I die
Well, that’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day, oh-oh
That’ll be the day